picket fence

American  

noun

1. a fence consisting of pickets or pales nailed to horizontal stringers between upright posts.

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picket fence British  

noun

1. a fence consisting of pickets supported at close regular intervals by being driven into the ground, by interlacing with strong wire, or by nailing to horizontal timbers fixed to posts in the ground

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Etymology

Origin of picket fence

An Americanism dating back to 1790–1800

Example Sentences

I didn’t exactly expect to find a Statue of Zeus hiding behind the picket fence.

From Literature

In a time of social conformity, “Picnic” explored the emotional wreckage and simmering passions behind the picket fences.

From The Wall Street Journal

‘Gen Z would rather invest in index funds and travel the world than tie themselves to a 30-year mortgage and a picket fence.’

From MarketWatch

The two barriers—the picket fence and the magical thicket—loom ominously over the land.

From Literature

A picket fence is trim, as are the schoolhouse’s large windows.

From The Wall Street Journal